A hiker's paradise! A complete guide to the three secret trekking routes of Basongcuo

Hiking lovers, look here! Basongcuo is not only a sightseeing destination but also a hiking paradise! This time, we focus on sharing three stunning hiking routes that take you deep into secret spots unseen by 99% of tourists!

🌟 Comparison of the three major hiking routes:
1️⃣ Xincuo Route - Beginner's first choice 🌲
Difficulty: ★★★☆☆ (Moderate)
Distance: About 7 km round trip
Duration: 3-4 hours (including photo stops)
Altitude: Around 3800 meters
Start hiking from Sangtong Pasture, passing through primeval forests and streams. This route is relatively flat, suitable for sisters new to high-altitude hiking. The endpoint, Xincuo Lake, is like a mirror reflecting snow-capped mountains and forests, resembling a fairyland.

2️⃣ Zhongcuo Route - Advanced exploration level 🏔️
Difficulty: ★★★★☆ (Medium to high)
Distance: About 11 km one way
Duration: Full-day trip
Altitude: 3900-4200 meters
Enter Zhongcuo Valley from Cuogao Village; this route is more pristine! You can ride a horse or hike. The endpoint is Zhongcuo Lake at the foot of Jiaqing Nala Gabu Snow Mountain. Cuogao Village itself is a Chinese historical and cultural famous village, worth a slow visit.

3️⃣ Bailang Valley Route - Off-the-beaten-path secret spot 🌄
Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ (Beginner)
Distance: 1.7 km one way
Duration: 40 minutes to reach Pugangluocuo
Altitude: Around 3800 meters
From Jieba Village towards Xincuo, turn left at the signpost. The entire route is through primeval forest with high oxygen content, suitable for sisters with average stamina. The endpoint is the beautiful Pugangluocuo, where the lake color changes with the light.

📅 Itinerary planning:
Hiking + sightseeing 5-day itinerary 🗓️
Day 1: Lhasa → Basongcuo (acclimate to altitude)
Day 2: Dachela Viewing Platform → Lake Heart Island → Jieba Village
Day 3: Full-day hike at Xincuo (light pack hiking)
Day 4: Explore Zhongcuo secret spot or easy tour of Bailang Valley
Day 5: Return to Lhasa, sightseeing along the Niyang River

Deep hiking 7-day itinerary
Adds hiking experiences in Lulang Forest Sea and Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, suitable for more physically fit advanced hikers.

🎒 Gear checklist:
Essential gear 👟
• Waterproof hiking shoes (important!)
• Shell jacket + fleece + light down jacket
• Trekking poles (save energy)
• Sunscreen SPF50+, sunglasses
• About 30L hiking backpack

Supplies 🍫
• High-calorie snacks (chocolate, energy bars)
• Thermos (for hot water)
• Basic first aid kit
• Portable oxygen bottle (backup)

📝 Practical tips:
Best hiking season 🍁
Late September to late October is the best time, with the most beautiful autumn colors and stable weather. Avoid the rainy season for better trail conditions.

Altitude adaptation advice
Acclimate in Lhasa 1-2 days in advance. Maintain steady breathing while hiking and don’t rush. Mild altitude sickness can be relieved by drinking glucose water.

Environmental awareness 🌍
Please carry out all trash and do not damage the natural environment. There are no supply points on the hiking routes, so bring your own drinking water and food.

💎 Safety tips:
• Inform your accommodation of your hiking plan before setting out
• Do not enter the mountains after 3 PM as weather changes easily
• Hike in groups, avoid going alone
• Keep rescue phone numbers and park management contacts saved

Basongcuo offers a rich variety of hiking routes, from beginner to advanced levels, so everyone can find a suitable choice. Autumn is the best season to explore—pack your bags and set off now!